Summer is finally here! The days are longer, the sun is brighter, and your dog is ready for fun-filled days. Warmer weather also brings more outdoor activities that you can do with your four-legged friend. So pack your doggie snacks, bring some extra water, and check out our list of 12 Summer Activities to Do With Your Dog!
1. Make Dog-Friendly Ice-Cream
Who doesn't enjoy a scoop (or two, or three) of delicious ice cream on a hot summer day? Let your dog enjoy this classic treat with some homemade dog-friendly ice cream! The Dog Tipper has an excellent recipe for Peanut Butter & Banana ice cream, and check out a tutorial by Bigger Bolder Baking for more refreshing doggie treats made with fruit.
2. Have a Sprinkler / Kiddie Pool Day
Do you have a dog that loves water but you don't have access to a nearby pool or beach? A sprinkler is an excellent solution! Your dog will love the cool relief, and you can water your lawn and flowers at the same time. It's a win-win! Need another solution? Purchase your dog a plastic kiddie pool for them to play in! You can often find them for under $15 at most retail stores and even pet stores.
3. Throw a Doggie Barbecue
Photo from real Redbarn customer @Thedesertdudes
Heat up the grill and invite your dog's favorite pals over for a fun doggie barbecue! We recommend you pass on seasoning the meats to avoid any toxic ingredients and upset tummies, as well as throwing away any fatty pieces of meat. The smell of grilled chicken and hot dogs is all they need! Don't forget to have plenty of toys to play with, and maybe even get the kiddie pool out for the dogs to play in. Or try our Summer BBQ Bundle, full of meaty Barbeque inspired snacks and treats such as our Hickory BBQ Bully Slices!
4. Share Some Summer Fruit
One of the best parts of summer is the delicious, sweet summer fruit that's in season. There are several fruits your dog can safely enjoy with you, like blueberries, watermelon, strawberries, and more! Fruit is full of vitamins that benefits your dog's nutrition, plus, it's always fun to see their face when they try something new and sweet. Take a peek at our blog on 7 Safe Summer Fruits for Dogs to learn more!
5. Drive-In Movie
Going to a drive-in movie is a summer-time favorite and an activity your dog can enjoy too. It's great quality time to sit and give your dog the pets and belly rubs they love so much. Be sure to call your local drive-in theater to make sure dogs are allowed!
6. Day At The Lake / Beach
Photo from real Redbarn customer @Wilderness_weenie
Pair the perfect weather with the perfect day at the lake or beach! You'll love soaking up the sun and getting some fresh air, while your dog enjoys all the new smells and possibly meeting doggie friends. Here are some things to bring along:
- Clean, fresh water for both you and your dog.
- Travel food/water bowl.
- Dog treats (we highly recommend our 4oz, travel-sized Rolled Food and Lamb Lung Training Treats).
- At least two towels for your pup.
- A beach umbrella - make sure your dog doesn't get too hot!
If you do go to a public beach, be sure to check that it's dog-friendly! And don't forget to pack their favorite snacks!
7. Get a Summer Haircut
It's going to be getting warmer and warmer for the next couple of months, which means your dog's fur may need trimming. Whether you cut your dog's hair yourself or take them to a groomer, getting them a fresh cut is a great way to relieve them from the heat, keep twigs out of their fur from hiking, and avoid matting on the fun water days.
8. Make Summer Art
Do you know what's better than art? Art made by your favorite furry buddy! Your dog's paw print is unique, and using pet-friendly paint to make art from their special print is a wonderful keepsake. Press their painted paws on rocks for your garden, or put them on paper and make beautiful flowers. The possibilities are endless!
Photos via boredpanda.com
9. Take a Day Trip
Change up your dog's daily routine and take them with you on a fun day trip! Visit a nearby city you've been wanting to explore, go see a good friend who may be a state away, or find an event happening a town over. Your pup will love all the new sights and smells, and you'll love their company. Don't forget to pack a bag for them (food, treats, water, chews) and research dog-friendly restaurants and stores.
10. Enjoy a Picnic Together
Another great way to have some quality time with your pup is by taking them out for a picnic. Head to their favorite park with a blanket, a lunch for yourself, and a special lunch just for them like cooked, unseasoned chicken, brown rice, and dog-friendly fruits and veggies. Don't forget to bring a frisbee or ball along and have some playtime too!
11. Go Hiking
Photo from real Redbarn customer @Withmyelements
Adventure is out there! Hiking is a great activity you and your dog can enjoy together, providing you both with fresh air, exercise, and a chance to clear your head. Be sure to bring treats and water for your pup, and maybe even some dog shoes/coverings if you're going to a rocky or heavily wooded area. With flea and tick season in full swing, we highly suggest your talk to your vet about flea and tick prevention if you haven't already. Check out some lightweight, easy to carry, protein-packed Beef Jerky for a great hiking pup snack!
12. Garden Dog-Friendly Vegetables
Gardening is a summer hobby many families partake in, and just like summer fruits, there are several veggies that are healthy for your pup to eat. Break out the gardening tools and let your dog enjoy some quality time in the backyard with you as your plant some vegetables for the both of you. Who knows, maybe they can help dig some holes! Here are some summer vegetables perfectly safe for your pup to eat:
- Carrots
- Green Beans
- Spinach
- Kale
- Zucchini
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
Have some summer activities you do with your dog that we didn't mention? Comment below and give us your suggestions!
